April

Not usually a genre that I would casually sit down to watch but am glad that I did! Whilst uncomfortable to watch at times this hard hitting feature from director and writer Darren King is a relatable story of how interwoven crime and child grooming in this case is into our modern society and with what ease it can destroy lives and relationships. No big cinematic events just everyday stories of young people who are enticed into an initial glamorised life of crime before the reality and pay back becomes searingly clear. Brilliantly cast and powerful performances throughout. A hard hitting and memorable film that will remain with you.

British gangster film that maybe tries too hard to tick every box but ends up like a teenage photo story - we see key points, but very little of the gradual slide we have to assume when someone's character is completely inverted. For one teenage girl not to notice that her best friend has become a drug-smuggling sex worker pulling in thousands of pounds stretches credibility.

Every tabloid horror story about teens drawn into crime is represented here: youngsters tempted by new trainers; recent recruits used to pull in new blood; grooming until victims are hooked, then brutality; money, flash cars, guns; abusive childhoods; vaguely middle-class targets; loan sharks; even a grifting bent copper.

It is not a bad film. There are some issues with sound recording; locations are a bit too genteel; the least convincing secondary school girls' toilet ever; but there are some good performances. The two leads, Myles and April, are convincing, with Kiera Lane (I think) outstanding in what appears to be her debut. The director features as a gang member whose role is unclear but whose malevolence is beyond doubt.

The last act is confused - perhaps deliberately - by the timeline jumping back and forwards. I understand why, but it didn't work for me. Overall, though, a solid effort that could be tweaked to make a genuinely good film.

In Darren James King's April, Neal Ward is a force to be reckoned with. Whilst we do feel for him at times due to his history, the plot ensures this is very shortlived.

Kiera Lane plays the titular role of April, a sweet girl who you just want to steer in any direction other than to Myles. Lane provides an emotional performance that draws you further into the storyline.

King's writing manages to weave various characters into different storylines flawlessly as the film delves into the dark and disturbing reality of organised crime. It also shows the effects it has on the young people sucked into the lifestyle they should be sheltered from.

April is a great crime drama and is well worth a watch!

Really enjoyed watching this. It's A film with a powerful message for everyone. Definitely worth watching. The cast were all played very well, their own stories are well written, it makes you want to follow them.

Really didn't enjoy watching this. It's a film that thinks it has a powerful message, but not worth watching. The cast were all played awful, probably not helped by a sullen and boring script, their own stories are badly written, it makes you wish Amazon would review their policies on allowing tripe to be on their service.

Any chance of a refund...